Making an appearance on “Instructions” is the one-and-only, Playa Fly. He is one of my favourite artists, and Corey Adkins introduced me to his music. Having him offer condolences to Corey was another full-circle moment. “Instructions” encourages us all to confront the universal, yet often unspoken, struggles we face when dealing with the loss of our loved ones.

Growing Up in a Small Town

Growing up in small towns like Reed and McGehee, Arkansas, with a combined population of less than 4400, it was a place where everyone knew your name, but also where death seemed to linger like a shadow. In these close-knit communities, I can easily name around 50 people who have passed away, many of whom I had known since childhood. The persistent presence of grief became a unique form of trauma, forcing us to grapple with various stages of grief at any given moment.

Dealing with Death

School never taught us how to handle death. If you didn’t have the financial means, there was no therapist available to guide you through the turbulent emotions. We resorted to the most unhealthy ways to cope, often expecting each other to be experts in mourning. I’ve even been estranged from family members for not grieving in the “right” way—a heavy burden to bear. Missing a funeral could lead people to cut ties with you, without ever asking why you weren’t there. Another death added to the list of grievances they held against me, and I pretended not to see it, trying to focus on moving forward.

The Dilemma of Offering Condolences

I share my own experience of being ostracized by a family member before her passing, a situation that left me grappling with complex emotions. It’s a scenario many can relate to, as death often magnifies unresolved conflicts and misunderstandings. “Wanted to give my condolences, but how? I mean, what was I to say to her kids? Couldn’t think of one sentence that wouldn’t come across offensive. Therefore, I gave them distance,” I rapped.

The Overarching Question: Where Are the Instructions?

“Death is such a touchy subject. Where are the instructions?” These words from my chorus resonate deeply. In the face of loss, we often find ourselves at a loss for words and actions. My question mirrors our own uncertainties and confusion in those moments. We desperately seek guidance on what to do, what to say, and how to alleviate the pain and the blame that often accompanies grief.

Relationships in the Wake of Death

The creation of “Live From Fatherhood” is rooted in the acceptance of my own death. “The thought of me dying, leaving my kids behind while they’re too young to remember me and understand certain things, got me jottin’ in my notepad. I want them to know Dad,” I rapped.

Final Thoughts

“Instructions” is an emotionally charged song that tackles the sensitive subject of death. It encourages us to acknowledge the complexity of grief, seek support when needed, and, above all, show understanding and compassion to those who are dealing with their own issues through loss.

My lyrics and melodies come together to create a powerful piece of music that articulates the human experience, making it a song worth listening to and sharing with others. Crafting this song has provided me relief and sense of peace as I face the challenges of loss and grief.

Instructions lyrics